I often have the browser open on one screen, and code on another. It means I can save the code and instantly refresh the output, without switching between windows. Sometimes I just use it for Facebook or music though

There’s a plugin called Theme-Check, if you include everything it suggests you’ll be fine. I expect you’ll want to include a blog section at the very least, even if you don’t think it seems necessary. Also things like comments, they don’t have to be visible all the time but it’s worth adding them.